Hiya, did Harry have a truly happy and healthy childhood? Or a crappy childhood followed by years of counselling and building of healthy relationships? Then it's not mine!
This is fanfiction, therefore, it's free and no copyrights' infringement is intended.
I was thinking... if Lily and James loved Harry so much and thought about their family first and not the war effort or Dumbledore words, would they stay in Britain?
Nah, I don't like Dumbles; If reading the words "bullshit" and "bloody" bothers you, huh, don't read? I have no beta; I might write more, maybe what happens in Britain? Some snippets of Harry's upbringing? What do you think?
I hope you enjoy, review and let me know about any mistakes - I'm not an English native speaker.
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I.
The Potters were a really old family, with roots in ancient history and a lineage that always mingled powerful families; They were pillars of society and could always be found in the midst of a conflict or other, fighting with any means they had in order to achieve progress and a better community. A great many Potters were warders, warriors or politicians, but there were always an eccentric or two thrown into the mix. They had always put family first, cherishing each member, but in recent times this value was upped even more since there weren't really that many of them around. Henry Potter, married to Eliza Greengrass and they had only two sons, Charlus and Fleamont. While Fleamont was the politician of them, Charlus was very much the eccentric, opting for travelling around; Both were impressive battle mages and had a knack for business, but Charlus only married to Dorea Black, a sharp-witted woman with a silver tongue and gentle heart towards those who didn't cross her or her loved ones, after two Duelling Circuits and a couple of art expositions around the world.
Fleamont married Euphemia Sideris - The Sideris was an old greek pureblood family that ended up in Britain and had a firm belief on raising strong children, forged individuals who fought for what they wanted, but never being brash; No, brashness was unbecoming of a Sideris. - but it took them many years until they could conceive their only son, James.
They weren't sure if Charlus and Dorea had managed to have more than a child -they had disappeared in a new travelling spree again - but what mattered to them was that their family should always come first; Keep them united, healthy and strong was to be their priority.
II.
The Blacks had a long, convoluted history and many times intrigue would run rampant amongst them, but at the end of the day, those who were family and loved ones should be protected. In recent times some had taken the family motto a step further and seemed to relish on casting other members out, something the current Lord didn't really approve of. Arcturus Black the Third had learnt well from his father and made sure to teach his grandson and Heir, Sirius, what was really right, what Toujour Purs was about. Being purebloods? Yes. But also being pure in their deeds and most of all, never cower in front of an outsider. Blacks were pure, were strong, were loyal to family. Blacks didn't back down - they could go slyly and sneaky about their goals, but they never bent the knee to those not worthy of them; Blacks were not servants or mindless sheep.
III.
The Evans were upstanding members of society, had good and prosperous dealings; Although not part of the wizarding world, the Evans' family was important in their own circles. They had a family history that went back to 10 generations of British citizens and they were a proud bunch. Harold Evans had married Violet Owen right after graduating from university and when he got his PhD, his firstborn was on the way. Violet had a fiery temper, but was a loving mother who instilled the fight for what they wanted in her daughters; To her, they could be from regular housewives to the first woman to step on the moon, as long as they were happy and keeping their family first.
IV.
Sometimes, the youngsters forget lessons their family try to imprint on them.
Sometimes they are ensnared in plans made by more knowledgeable figures and led around in the quest for approval, for what is expected of them, for what those strong figures say is right.
James Potter and Sirius Black, met when they were first going to Hogwarts and became attached to each other's hip soon enough. Lily Evans was just another girl with cooties for some time, until their lives intertwined, closer and closer with each year, with each decision taken.
When they were in their seventh year, they were family to each other. Remus was the young men's brother and Peter was something between a brother and a close cousin. Marlene McKnight and Alice Smith were like sisters to Lily, and the young group, although tight-knit, faced the pressure of war and they knew their lives would be different as soon as they were out of Hogwarts.
They were right.
Alice married Frank and they went to form their family; Marlene was killed along with her sister and parents; Remus was being sent around by their old Headmaster as an envoy and spy amongst the werewolves; Peter was jittery; Lily lost her parents in the typical situation of wrong-place-wrong-time. They were having an outing in the centre of London when Death Eaters attacked, killing them in the process and her sister hadn't spoken to her since before then; Her sister wanted normal and Lily wasn't it. A normal family came first.
When she fell pregnant, they were ecstatic and afraid at the same time, but the family was important, so they went on, being more careful, but still fighting and hoping for a country where their baby had no need to fight or be afraid like them.
Lily was a couple of months away from birth when her in-laws fell victim to Dragon Pox.
James, Lily and Sirius had been by Euphemia's bedside when she spoke with a voice much stronger than she was supposed to have when so sick.
-Family is everything. Son, remember all we've taught you. Sirius dear, you are as much our son as James; Don't forget what you've learnt, fight for what is needed and never forsake your interior child. Lily. -She smiled - You were blessed with magic that had been inactive in your ancestors and that has blossomed so much in you! You were blessed with intelligence and fire, with health and fertility. Put your family first, raise your children with love and values, wit and strength. - She looked to each of them - Be that Evans, Black, Sideris or Potter, be strong, do what is needed, stay together. Love each other, support and help to improve each other and put family first. You are not sheeple! Trust each other. Do what is needed. We love you, thrive.
V.
Thrive.
Albus Dumbledore had taken a seat in front of the young couple. Their seven months old was innocently sleeping in the playpen and the old headmaster had twinkled his eyes when he saw the baby. The Leader of the Order of the Phoenix was there in all his colourful garments and twinkles, having a cup of tea as if nothing was wrong.
-You mean to tell us that there was a prophecy, that you think the Dark Lord knows and we are targets? Our baby is a target? Just because he was born at the end of July?
-Yes Lily, my dear girl. I'm sorry to bring such news, but you need to be aware and go into hiding.
-Until when? What does the prophecy say? - Jame asked, knowing his wife was not keen on divination. Well, neither was he, if he was frank with himself.
-Alas, my boy, it is better if you don't know, just go into hiding and wait. I can cast the Fidelius for you.
-But, Albus, we can move to Potter Manor, the wards are strong enough to protect us. - James insisted.
-Oh my dears, I wish it was that easy. Wards can be breached; your cottage here is smaller and easier to hide, no one would think about looking for you here. Heed my words and stay here, we can work things out and you will be safe. You know you are icons of hope amongst the Light, your help is greatly appreciated in this war and while in hiding, your son can't be harmed.
Lily frowned. Thrive. Family first.
-Why can't you tell us? He's our son, it's our right to know and protect him. - the red-head pressed and Dumbledore stood.
-It is better if the contents are known to the smallest number of people possible. It is a risk if you let it slip among your friends and it gets back to Voldemort. I'll be back by the end of the week to cast the Fidelius, I trust you'll pick a Secret Keeper until then - He smiled, congenially brushing away any words Lily wanted to say, and her husband's hand on her shoulder stopped her.
-The Headmaster knows what he's talking about, love. - He looked at the old-man, their leader. - We will see you then, Albus.
-I knew you would do what is right, my boy.
He left and the young couple stood for a moment, their gaze landing on their son.
-Do what is right. What is right, James? He wouldn't tell us the bloody prophecy… A prophecy! They are too full of different interpretations.
-I know darling. But Albus…
-Don't you dare to Albus me, James! He wants us to stay hidden, here, until when? He wants us to do what is right. You know what is right?
-Yes, darling? - He knew she was on a roll and knew better than to say anything else now.
-He - Lily pointed to the baby - Us. - her eyes were even brighter with unshed tears - Jamie, I was to tell you later, but I might be pregnant again. I won't have our children locked up in this cottage for Morgana knows how long just because Albus said so! I don't care about any prophecy!
-I'm gonna be a daddy again? - She smiled at him, nodding and causing her husband to spin her around.
-Your mom said we should thrive. What is it all of us have learnt since we were kids and she reminded us?
-Family first. - He said, his expression solemn. - We are not going to follow Dumbledore words simply because he's our leader in this conflict, are we?
-No. We've been following him since our school days, but it's enough. He is not thinking about us, he's thinking about the war effort. He could have warned us and left us to make our choice or simply flee, but he didn't. He wants us to stay here when the best option is not this. He wants us to do what he sees as right, but we need to do what is needed for our family.
-You are right Lils, but what are we to do then?
-We pack, we pick the best-protected Potter property outside Britain.
-We call Padfoot and Moony. Peter is drifting from us anyway and wouldn't come without asking.
-Moony might need explanations first, and we might not find him fast enough, Albus said this last mission could take him a month - She wrinkled her nose - and Moony left this past week.
-Ok. I'll check the properties, pick the best one and shut down the others.
-I'll pack our belongings. - She gathered her baby, taking him with her upstairs and started packing clothes, toys and books, keeping only a small bag with whatever they would need for four days worth. She went on to their bedroom and did the same, packing their albums, knick-knacks and such together.
She had just fed Harry when James came in, holding a portfolio.
-This property is the safest I could find and is far enough from Britain.
-Where is it?
-It was my mom's family manor, in Greece.
-Good. I'll call Alice, Neville was born a day before Harry. Can you take him for a bit? We should move our vaults; I'll contact the Irish gnomes that have my own and transfer to Greece. Can you transfer at least part of the Potter holdings to Switzerland or something? We could use those money pouches and cards, keeping the heirlooms out of here, but not taking all the gold.
-Perfect Lils. I'll contact the Goblins. - James took Harry and went to pack things from his and Lily's study while Lily called Alice.
..
-Alice?
-Lily! - Alice's face came quickly into view, little Neville strapped to her front. - How are you?
-Fine, hey, have you been visited by Albus?
Alice's face fell.
-Yes. He visited you, didn't he?
-Yes, told us to let him cast the Fidelius and stay hidden here.
-And you took this as well as I did, right?
-Probably worse. - They chuckled - What are you going to do?
-My parents have gone to America since my wedding and refuse to come back while we are in a war. They are staying with some relatives there - She sighed - Augusta says we shouldn't listen to Dumbledore, but she has been telling Frank that since he started Hogwarts - She sighed - She doesn't like him, you know - They snickered, thinking about the times the formidable woman would face the Headmaster and whip the floor with him. They had been many times affronted, how could someone not like Dumbledore? He was a great man! But Fleamont Potter, Arcturus Black and Augusta Longbottom had always held the Headmaster at arm's length and would many times butt heads with their charges for worshipping their Headmaster.
-What does Frank think?
-He puts as much stock in prophecies as the rest of us, but he is not keen on leaving Britain or the war altogether. Maybe I'll go with Neville to America, my parents have yet to meet him, anyway. What about you?
Lily fished a small mirror from her pocket.
-James and Sirius made these two-way mirrors when we were still in Hogwarts, combining their Family Magicks. They had made one more for me and for Remus, but I asked for an extra pair. - She passed it through the Floo - Keep them. Give one to Frank, ok? The green one is yours and connected to mine and Frank's, the yellow one to Jame's, Sirius and yours. They will only answer to a tap of your wand or a bit of pressed magic from your finger followed by one of our names, as a security measure.
-Great, these are awesome, thank you!
-You are welcome. Now, I'm not sure about our next step, but I'll let you know by calling your mirror. Keep me posted, alright? - She looked into the eyes of her first witch-friend. - You are still family, and family comes first. Bye, Ali.
-Bye, Lils.
..
After a quick trip to Gringotts, in which James went wearing a glamour that was dispelled as soon as he was out of wizarding sight, he got a mailbox with enough charms to protect it from almost a postal AK, from where he would send letters to the Bones, Abbott, Greengrass, Davies, Wood, Bell and Lovegoods' families after they had settled, informing their friends and allies about the threat over their family, their need to hide and for secrecy; Telling them that the Potters would do what was necessary to ensure their family survival, as they should.
Leaving the bank, the glamours were quickly reapplied and James suddenly had a thought. If there was really a prophecy, there would be a sphere at the DOM and Lily, as a reserve Unspeakable, could access it. Yes.
VI.
Lily called in a favour with the Head Unspeakable and entered the Hall of the Prophecies during nighttime, silently. She walked until the correct shelf and narrowed her eyes. There was no name bar the "Dark Lord" and "APWBD". Prophecies were not set in stone, they were tricky to interpret, could change, could be self-fulfilling and could be manipulated. If -and that was a big if in her opinion - the prophecy was really true, it would happen anyway, anytime, anywhere. But she didn't really put much faith on it. Or no faith at all. She would not let her son be a target, even if it meant that she would never set foot on British soil again and had to change his birthdate or something.
Lily also got a Bypass-Portkey that could be programmed to a safe house and would bypass any ward short of Hogwarts or an Ancient Manor in lockdown. She was quick on programming it and sending it to Alice via House Elf. If Frank convinced her about staying, she would have a way to break through any wards the Dork Lard and his Death Munchers could put up.
VII.
They were packed, their assets secured, the properties in lockdown. James called Sirius in his mirror.
-Padfoot. - After a couple of seconds, Sirius' face filled the mirror.
-Hiya Prongs, hello Lily-flower. Where's Prongslet?
-No time to chit-chat Pads. Something's on.
-What is it? - His smile was gone - Moldy Shorts?
-Yes and No. Siri, what is it that all of our families have tried to imprint on us since we were born?
-Why Lils, family first. - He looked a bit confused now. -What's up?
-What did Euphemia tell us? Do you remember? - He nodded, serious. She smiled - Good.
-Can you pack what you couldn't leave behind, inform your grandpa that you are leaving and give him your mirror? We can make another. - James said looking into his best friend's eyes.
Sirius didn't need to think about his decision but wanted to clarify things.
-Are we leaving the war effort?
-Yes.
-Gonna explain later, yeah?
-Of course. Don't tell anyone. Can you be ready in, say, - James cast a Tempus - Two hours?
-Sure thing. Will there be hot ladies?
-Get your mind out of the gutter Sirius! - Lily rolled her eyes and Sirius barked out a laugh.
-Meet you there?
-Yes.
-Right-o. See ya.
..
-Grandfather has the mirror, he smiled and said he was proud of someone doing what's needed. He's putting Black Manor in lockdown with all the possible defences up. He also told me to find a well-rounded pureblood lady and get heirs of my own instead of sharing yours. - Sirius said when he showed up in the middle of their living room, three shrunken trunks and a satchel bag. He let out a grimace - My bike is in there. He said he could send it later or I could enchant another. It's not becoming of the Heir Black to use this kind of contraptions anyway. - He rolled his eyes - So, when are we going? What with Moony and Peter?
-Moony will be informed when we are settled, we'll call him. Peter… - James frowned - He's being weirder than normal, we don't want to tell him anything now. He's distant anyway.
-Dumbledore says there's a prophecy, that the Dork Lord knows about it and will target us as a result.
-We are targets already - Sirius said shrugging.
-No. We are targets now because of Harry. - His face clouded immediately.
-And what did the Headmaster say?
-That we should stay here, do the right thing, being such icons of The Light and hide under Fidelius.
-Bullshit. - He took Harry in his arms - No one is harming our pup. - The said baby giggled and slapped his cheeks - We are going by PortKey or what?
-I don't doubt Albus would follow our trail. We are apparating to Cardiff, then to London, Manchester, Glasgow and to the Isle of Man. From there, we will call our elves and they will pop us to Paris where we will take a Gringotts Portkey to the Zürich Branch, before flooing to Milan and taking a muggle aeroplane.
-Wow, Lils. Okay, good, no way someone will find us after all this popping around.
-That's the point. Can you take Harry? I'll side along with Jamie. - Sirius narrowed his eyes.
-And you can't take him as you always want, because…
-She's preggers again! - James grinned and Sirius laughed.
-Way to go Potter! - Lily rolled her eyes as she always did when Sirius was around.
-Let's go, Albus is to come tomorrow morning.
VIII.
-Well, a personal beach in Cyprus certainly even things out -Sirius said looking around, before setting Harry down and shifting.
Magical Cyprus was halved between Magical Greece and Magical Turkey and lived without the conflicts their non-magical counterparts had. They were all magical and if one group had a different culture, what's the matter? Their history wasn't the same as their counterparts - although they did start as one - and the two cultures meshed together in the borders, with constant trade and exchange between them.
Euphemia's family had that property since they started and uncountable generations had left their contributions to their wards, synchronizing them with nature and each other, strengthening them with yearly rituals. The magic thrummed in a welcoming tune and surrounded them the moment the family stepped on the property.
Lily looked at her son, Harry's black hair curling on his neck, his bright green eyes examining everything, his hands fisting the sand under him while Padfoot trotted around, barking and making him giggle. She looked at her husband, his face relaxed in a way it hadn't since before they left Hogwarts; She put her hand over her stomach, feeling the foreign and yet welcome magic inside her. She looked at the House and at the sea.
They were safe.
Family would always come first.